Avid readers of Agatha Christie’s novels may well know that the famous author herself was the star/subject of one of her greatest mysteries. Why did Mrs. Christie disappear for all those days? It is not really a spoiler to say that she learned that Archie was having an affair. Still, where did she go? What made Archie seem so appealing to two very different women?
In addition to that mystery, who was the other woman? What was her story? Can readers empathize with her?
Learn more about both women in this historical fiction title. Nina de Gramont tells her story well. She makes Nan’s story believable and this is more her story than Agatha’s.
Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for this title. All opinions are my own.
I loved this sweet story about a little boy who wanted a dog but got a cat. Watch as these two become best friends. The illustrations are absolutely adorable and go so well with the text. This story offers a little reminder, maybe even for adults, that the unexpected can sometimes turn out to be the very best thing.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Clavis publishing for this title. All opinions are my own.
I listen to a mindfulness app pretty often. I think that slowing down, breathing with awareness and the conversation topics for the day are all helpful. So, I was intrigued to extend my knowledge with this title that offers 33 breathing techniques.
Readers are in good hands with the author who definitely knows whereof she speaks. There are sections relating to breath and mood, energy, inner healing, relaxation and grounding, and sleep. Also included is the Breathwork Tool Kit as well as some additional resources. It is made clear to readers that this book can be read in any way and order that feels helpful although it is suggested that some consistency in terms of daily practice can make a difference. The instructions are clear and easy to follow. Definitely worth a look for those who want to practice calmness.
Many thanks to Rock Point-Quarto and NetGalley for this title. All opinions are my own. I know that I will feel better soon.
Elly Griffiths is currently writing three different mystery series. There are the stories (historical) set around Brighton and the Harbinder novels in addition to those about Ruth, Nelson, Michelle and those around them. While I would happily read anything that Ms. Griffiths writes, I admit to a special soft spot for the stories about Ruth. Last year’s book featuring her as been nominated for the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Novel of the Year. I hope she wins.
A lot going on in this title. There is a mysterious and scary dog who apparently lives in a pretty horrible house in the middle of nowhere. Unlike with Holmes, this dog does bark but it is unclear why he is frequently sighted and to whom he belongs. He does terrify people though.
The farm where this beast has been seen is the site of two deaths. Was there a murder/suicide or was this a crime committed by an outsider? The murdered doctor is a singularly unlikable character. He has intimidated his wife and children and has been doing some mysterious research with fatal results. Which unsavory aspect of his life led to his demise?
The Night Hawks of the title are a group of men who go hunting for metal objects. Their finds include bodies, both historical. Some of these men have connections with the doctor and his family. Does that make them suspects?
Ruth also has a new colleague with whom to contend. What is in his past? Will Ruth rue having hired him? Where will he fit in the events of the story?
Around all of this, are Ruth, Nelson Kate, Michelle and their relationships. Where will they be by the end of the book?
Readers who are fans should absolutely rush out to get this 13th title in the series. I recommend it highly for its local geography, the people and the story itself.
Many, many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title. All opinions are my own.
Freeand others by Sparks as well.And other Bonds too
In recent English classes I have reread Pride and Prejudice, Persuasion and, most recently, Sense and Sensibility so I was seriously excited about this book. Fans of Jane Austen and cozy mysteries will NOT want to miss this one. It is a lot of fun as, in it, Wickham (that rogue), gets his comeuppance.
The conceit of the novel is most clever. It is to bring together many beloved Austen characters in one place, a house party, and watch as they interact. Readers will learn how these men and women are interconnected and will enjoy the glimpses of what happened to each after their time in their original novel ended. I very much enjoyed the young detectives, children of some of the well-known parents. I so hope that this will be the start of a series.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Knopf Doubleday for this title. All opinions are my own.
Record your story through creative art projects, prompts, and activities
by Nicole Sipe
#AllAboutMeArtJournal #NetGalley
This title could be a fun summer project for a child you know. Kids should love the many extra like stickers, coloring pages and more. They can include info on favorite foods, hobbies, family lore and more. I especially liked that there was a section entitled “Future Me.” Kids are even instructed on how to make a time capsule of this title, so that, many years from now, they can look at what they created and remember their younger self.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Quarto-Walter Foster Jr. Books for this title. All opinions are my own.
Joyce's mystery and fiction book reviews with some non-fiction too! 